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DESCRIPTION
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) is a mild, surfactant derived from coconut oil.
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) is commonly used in personal care products such as shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and soaps due to its ability to cleanse without causing irritation.
SCI is a gentle, anionic surfactant, known for its ability to create a rich, creamy lather while being less harsh than traditional cleansing agents like SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate).
CAS NUMBER
61789-32-0
SYNONYMS
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate,Fatty acids, coconut oil, sulfoethyl esters, sodium salts,518XTE8493,Coconut fatty acid, 2-sulfoethyl ester, sodium salt,Igepon AC-78,Incredible Saintete DishclothSoap,MODUGA camellia hair bar,MODUGA woody hair bar,DTXSID6028070,EC 263-052-5,EINECS 263-052-5,Jordapon CI,SODIUM COCOYL ISETIONATE (MART.),SODIUM ISETHIONATE COCONUT ESTER,Sodium cocoyl isothionate,UNII-518XTE8493
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) is a mild, anionic surfactant commonly used in personal care and cleaning products.
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) is derived from natural sources such as coconut oil or palm kernel oil and is a member of the fatty acid isethionate family.
Its mildness and effectiveness in generating foam make it a popular choice in formulations for sensitive skin.
CHEMICAL STRUCTURE:
SCI is composed of a hydrophilic (water-attracting) isethionate group and a hydrophobic (water-repelling) fatty acid chain, typically derived from coconut or palm kernel oils.
Its molecular formula is C16H31NaO3S.
The hydrophilic head allows SCI to interact with water, while the hydrophobic tail interacts with oils and dirt, enabling cleaning action.
Importance in Industry:
SCI has become an essential component in a wide range of cosmetic and household products due to its gentle nature.
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) is often used in formulations for shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and mild detergents.
CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
Molecular Formula:
C16H31NaO3S — the sodium salt of a fatty acid derived from natural oils.
This molecular composition facilitates its solubility in water, while the long fatty acid chain allows it to emulsify oils and dirt.
Ionic Nature:
SCI is an anionic surfactant, meaning it has a negative charge in aqueous solutions.
This ionic nature makes it an effective cleanser, as it reduces surface tension and helps to break the bonds between water and oils, allowing the oils to be washed away.
Solubility:
SCI is water-soluble, although its solubility can depend on the concentration of the surfactant.
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) forms a gel-like consistency in water at higher concentrations, which can aid in stability and ease of use in various products.
Surface Activity:
SCI significantly reduces the surface tension of water, enabling it to spread more easily across surfaces.
This property is especially important in personal care products, where SCI helps in the formation of stable foams that enhance cleaning and skin feel.
SYNTHESIS AND MANUFACTURING
Raw Materials:
The primary raw materials for SCI are coconut oil and palm kernel oil, both of which are rich in long-chain fatty acids.
Isethionic acid, derived from sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide, is also a crucial precursor in the synthesis process.
Saponification Process:
SCI is synthesized through a process called esterification, where fatty acids (from coconut or palm kernel oil) are reacted with isethionic acid.
This results in the formation of SCI.
The reaction is followed by neutralization with sodium hydroxide, forming the sodium salt.
Industrial Production:
SCI is manufactured on a large scale using controlled chemical processes.
The process involves mixing coconut or palm oil with isethionic acid, followed by heat and chemical catalysts to promote esterification. After neutralization, the product is purified and dried to produce a fine powder or paste.
Quality control measures ensure that the final product meets safety and performance standards.
USES IN PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS
Surfactant in Shampoos and Cleansers:
SCI is widely used in shampoos for its ability to create rich lather and effectively cleanse the hair without stripping away natural oils. It is also commonly found in facial cleansers where its gentle nature helps maintain the skin's natural moisture balance.
Facial Cleansers and Soaps:
SCI is particularly favored in facial cleansers due to its mildness.
It doesn't cause the drying effect often associated with harsher surfactants like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), making it suitable for sensitive and dry skin types.
Body Washes:
As a key ingredient in body washes, SCI provides a creamy lather that effectively removes dirt and oils while leaving the skin soft and hydrated.
Its mildness ensures that it is non-irritating, even when used in higher concentrations.
Moisturizing and Conditioning Agents:
SCI is often used in combination with other ingredients to enhance the moisturizing properties of personal care products.
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) can also be found in hair conditioners, where it helps in detangling and providing smoothness.
USES IN HOUSEHOLD AND INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS
Detergents and Dishwashing Products:
SCI is utilized in laundry detergents and dishwashing liquids for its ability to emulsify oils and grease.
It breaks down oil and dirt, allowing for easy removal during washing.
Laundry Products:
In laundry detergents, SCI helps to soften fabrics and improve cleaning performance without causing irritation to the skin.
Its gentle action makes it ideal for washing delicate fabrics or clothes worn by sensitive individuals.
MECHANISMS OF ACTION
Foaming Properties:
SCI produces abundant, creamy foam, which is one of the reasons it is so widely used in personal care products.
Foam formation aids in the dispersion of the active ingredients and enhances the sensory experience during use.
Cleaning Efficacy:
As a surfactant, SCI lowers the surface tension between water and oils, making it easier to remove oils, dirt, and other impurities.
The long hydrophobic tail of SCI binds with oils and dirt, while the hydrophilic head interacts with water, aiding in their removal.
Skin and Hair Interactions:
SCI is known for its mildness on the skin and hair.
It cleans effectively without stripping away natural oils, which is particularly important for sensitive or dry skin.
SCI helps maintain the integrity of the skin’s natural lipid barrier.
SAFETY PROFILE
Dermal Irritation and Sensitization:
SCI is considered non-irritating to the skin at typical concentrations used in formulations.
Several studies have shown that SCI is much milder than other surfactants, such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, which can cause dryness and irritation in sensitive individuals.
Environmental Impact:
SCI is biodegradable and poses minimal environmental impact compared to traditional surfactants like SLS.
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) breaks down into non-toxic byproducts in the environment, making it a safer choice for eco-conscious formulations.
BENEFITS AND ADVANTAGES OVER OTHER SURFACTANTS
Milder Alternative:
SCI is much milder compared to harsher surfactants like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES).
While SLS is effective at cleaning, it can cause irritation and dryness, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin.
SCI, on the other hand, provides gentle cleansing while maintaining the skin's moisture balance.
Environmental Benefits:
SCI is derived from renewable plant sources, and it is biodegradable, making it a more environmentally friendly option than other surfactants.
It is also free of harsh chemicals that could harm aquatic life.
Reduced Skin Irritation:
SCI’s mildness makes it ideal for use in products designed for sensitive skin, including baby products, and for people with conditions such as eczema or rosacea.
Its gentle action minimizes the risk of skin irritation or allergic reactions.
REGULATORY AND SAFETY STANDARDS
Cosmetic and Personal Care Regulations:
SCI is approved for use in personal care products by regulatory bodies such as the U.S. FDA, the European Medicines Agency (EMA), and other international authorities.
It is considered a safe and effective ingredient when used within specified limits.
Environmental Regulations:
SCI is compliant with environmental standards for biodegradability. Its use is regulated to ensure that it does not pose a risk to aquatic life when released into the environment.
Certification:
Many manufacturers obtain certifications for SCI-based products, such as cruelty-free or vegan certification.
These certifications highlight the ethical sourcing and manufacturing processes used in SCI production.
RECENT RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENTS
Innovations in SCI Formulations:
New research into SCI formulations has focused on improving its solubility and effectiveness at lower concentrations.
Additionally, combining SCI with other surfactants or active ingredients has led to enhanced performance in various product categories.
Advances in Surfactant Chemistry:
Research into the chemistry of surfactants has led to the development of new variants of SCI that are even milder and more effective in specific applications, such as in products for babies or those with sensitive skin.
Clinical Studies:
Clinical studies have demonstrated that SCI is non-irritating to the skin, even when used daily.
Research also shows that SCI can improve the condition of the skin by maintaining moisture levels, preventing the stripping of natural oils.
MARKET TRENDS AND FUTURE PROSPECTS
Growth in Demand:
As consumers become more conscious of the ingredients in personal care and household products, the demand for mild, natural, and eco-friendly surfactants like SCI has grown significantly. The trend toward sustainable and vegan products is also contributing to this growth.
Sustainability Initiatives:
Manufacturers are continually improving the sustainability of SCI production by focusing on reducing the environmental impact of raw material sourcing and production processes.
Competitive Landscape:
Leading companies in the personal care industry, such as Procter & Gamble, Unilever, and smaller indie brands, are increasingly incorporating SCI into their formulations.
Market competition has led to further innovations in product performance and safety.
Summary of SCI’s Importance:
SCI is a highly effective, gentle, and environmentally friendly surfactant.
It has wide applications in personal care, household cleaning products, and even industrial applications due to its mildness, foaming ability, and cleaning power.
Future Outlook:
The future of SCI looks promising, as research continues into improving its efficacy and sustainability.
With increasing consumer demand for natural and gentle products, SCI will likely remain a central ingredient in formulations worldwide.
SAFETY INFORMATION ABOUT SODIUM COCOYL ISETHIONATE (SCI)
First aid measures:
Description of first aid measures:
General advice:
Consult a physician.
Show this safety data sheet to the doctor in attendance.
Move out of dangerous area:
If inhaled:
If breathed in, move person into fresh air.
If not breathing, give artificial respiration.
Consult a physician.
In case of skin contact:
Take off contaminated clothing and shoes immediately.
Wash off with soap and plenty of water.
Consult a physician.
In case of eye contact:
Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and consult a physician.
Continue rinsing eyes during transport to hospital.
If swallowed:
Do NOT induce vomiting.
Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person.
Rinse mouth with water.
Consult a physician.
Firefighting measures:
Extinguishing media:
Suitable extinguishing media:
Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.
Special hazards arising from the substance or mixture
Carbon oxides, Nitrogen oxides (NOx), Hydrogen chloride gas
Advice for firefighters:
Wear self-contained breathing apparatus for firefighting if necessary.
Accidental release measures:
Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures
Use personal protective equipment.
Avoid breathing vapours, mist or gas.
Evacuate personnel to safe areas.
Environmental precautions:
Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so.
Do not let product enter drains.
Discharge into the environment must be avoided.
Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up:
Soak up with inert absorbent material and dispose of as hazardous waste.
Keep in suitable, closed containers for disposal.
Handling and storage:
Precautions for safe handling:
Avoid inhalation of vapour or mist.
Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place.
Containers which are opened must be carefully resealed and kept upright to prevent leakage.
Storage class (TRGS 510): 8A: Combustible, corrosive hazardous materials
Exposure controls/personal protection:
Control parameters:
Components with workplace control parameters
Contains no substances with occupational exposure limit values.
Exposure controls:
Appropriate engineering controls:
Handle in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practice.
Wash hands before breaks and at the end of workday.
Personal protective equipment:
Eye/face protection:
Tightly fitting safety goggles.
Faceshield (8-inch minimum).
Use equipment for eye protection tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or EN 166(EU).
Skin protection:
Handle with gloves.
Gloves must be inspected prior to use.
Use proper glove
removal technique (without touching glove's outer surface) to avoid skin contact with this product.
Dispose of contaminated gloves after use in accordance with applicable laws and good laboratory practices.
Wash and dry hands.
Full contact:
Material: Nitrile rubber
Minimum layer thickness: 0.11 mm
Break through time: 480 min
Material tested:Dermatril (KCL 740 / Aldrich Z677272, Size M)
Splash contact
Material: Nitrile rubber
Minimum layer thickness: 0.11 mm
Break through time: 480 min
Material tested:Dermatril (KCL 740 / Aldrich Z677272, Size M)
It should not be construed as offering an approval for any specific use scenario.
Body Protection:
Complete suit protecting against chemicals, The type of protective equipment must be selected according to the concentration and amount of the dangerous substance at the specific workplace.
Respiratory protection:
Where risk assessment shows air-purifying respirators are appropriate use a fullface respirator with multi-purpose combination (US) or type ABEK (EN 14387) respirator cartridges as a backup to engineering controls.
If the respirator is the sole means of protection, use a full-face supplied air respirator.
Use respirators and components tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or CEN (EU).
Control of environmental exposure
Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so.
Do not let product enter drains.
Discharge into the environment must be avoided.
Stability and reactivity:
Chemical stability:
Stable under recommended storage conditions.
Incompatible materials:
Strong oxidizing agents:
Hazardous decomposition products:
Hazardous decomposition products formed under fire conditions.
Carbon oxides, Nitrogen oxides (NOx), Hydrogen chloride gas.
Disposal considerations:
Waste treatment methods:
Product:
Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company.
Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material.
Contaminated packaging:
Dispose of as unused product
